We’re delighted with Network Rail and the Design Council’s evaluation of our work on their ExploreStation programme.
Our shared goal was to involve as many people as possible in the development of new station designs and we hoped that the use of new technology would broaden and deepen engagement. This proved true. Our work complemented the work of other engagement specialists employing more traditional forms of engagement and one success was how seamlessly we collaborated.
Our digital experts created two immersive experiences that allowed individuals to explore and navigate through new station designs, giving them a feel for different times of day and weather conditions.
We secured feedback from a high percentage of people taking part – and the content of the feedback showed the impact of immersive technology in reaching new audiences.
Over 11 days and across 5 locations we hosted 630 visitors who collectively spent over 105 hours participating in our VR experiences. Almost half of the attendees (308) gave feedback and we had in-depth conversations with a number of them.
Our efforts effectively reached out to a younger and more diverse demographic, while the feedback figures suggest that the medium gave confidence to individuals who may have limited knowledge of design concepts and technical expertise and may not normally give feedback on consultations. This confidence to engage enabled them to engage with the design process and contribute to shaping better travel experiences.
Digital Urban team member Cory Collard-King said,
“The dedication to designing and hosting an experience that feels different to traditional ways of engaging sends a message about the organisation’s dedication to sharing with, and hearing from, as wide a range of people as possible.”
We are currently developing exciting virtual reality experiences that are helping local councils in the UK connect with a wider range of people and make the most of the additional advantages that virtual engagement offers.
